Broadway actor stars in FSU's production of 'How to Succeed...'

School of Theatre alum Kevin Covert returns

Oct. 22, 2012

FSU School of Theatre alumnus Kevin Covert starred in the original Broadway productions of ‘Spamalot,’ ‘Memphis’ and the revival of ‘How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.’ / Photo courtesy of Kevin Covert

Written by

Ariel Backer

Contributing Writer

FSU School of Theatre alumnus Kevin Covert starred in the original Broadway productions of ‘Spamalot,’ ‘Memphis’ and the revival of ‘How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.’ / Photo courtesy of Kevin Covert

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Kevin Covert isn’t your typical FSU alum. His post-graduate life has consisted of performing in national Broadway tours, the Tony award-winning original Broadway musical productions of Monty Python’s Spamalot, Memphis (the latter with fellow School of Theatre alum Montego Glover) and the revival of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. Now, he’s returned to his alma mater to star in and choreograph the FSU School of Theatre’s production of “How to Succeed....”

Covert grew up in the small town of Winchester, Va. where he started dancing at an early age.

“I sort of always knew that the arts were something for me,” said Covert.
After dancing for a few years, he auditioned for a professional theatre near his hometown. They were presenting the play Life with Father and Covert landed a role.

While growing up he worked on various productions; eventually, he performed in his first musical: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.

“So I always was doing theatre and dance, but never really knew how to marry the two until I did that musical,” said Covert.

Upon deciding his college major, Covert was well aware he wanted to dance and act, but singing was something new for him.

“As a dancer you’re always told you can’t sing, as a singer you’re always told you can’t dance,” said Covert.

His guidance counselor helped him research music theatre programs; he decided it was the best way to balance his passions. It was a toss-up between Florida State University and Carnegie Mellon. According to Covert, the deal-breaker between the dynamic programs was the classic college experience.

“Honestly, for me it was really the people and the feel of the town,” said Covert. “Pittsburgh seemed like a big city to me and a little cold. When I came here to see Florida State, I knew I wanted a real college experience. You know you grow up a lot in college and I wanted the whole package. So, here I came.”

Covert began his journey at FSU in 1988. Since graduating from the BFA Musical Theatre program in 1992, Covert has made a name for himself in the professional theatre world, but he hasn’t let fame faze him. He relays he’s appreciative of his roots and credits his experience in the FSU School of Theatre as shaping his talent and drive.

This year, Covert was presented with an opportunity to give back to his alma mater.

“I got a call from Kate Gelabert [head of the FSU BFA Music Theatre program] and she said, ‘You know, we’re considering doing How to Succeed [...] and we would love for you to come down to be a guest artist and teach,’ ” Covert said.

After requesting a leave of absence from the revival of How to Succeed... on Broadway, he decided to accept the offer.

“Once again I have to say that with my love for this school,” Covert said. “I didn’t even hesitate; I was thrilled to be asked back, and I would do it again. I am a Seminole.”

Covert will play the role of J.B. Biggley in the School of Theatre’s production of the musical. He is also choreographing the show, with major influence from Broadway choreographer Rob Ashford, alongside teaching a musical theatre workshop that focuses on the audition process. He says while on campus he plans to serve as a resource for those considering a theatrical career or potentially moving to New York.

“I always say just come to me, ask me anything you want—I’m happy to help you out,” said Covert. “I certainly wish I had known some things when I went out of FSU.”
After his stay at FSU, Covert plans to return to New York and continue auditioning for shows.

“You know the life of a character actor in New York City—I call it a little bit like a ‘gypsy’s life,’ ” said Covert.